Migrate RT-AC68U to RT-AC86U

[SeaConn]

Signal range is shorter on 86U but better throughput than 68U.

Did you test both routers using the same channel? Theoretically, unii-3 would have a higher throughput than unii-1 but unii-3 would also have a shorter range.

 

[pete y testing]

Signal range is shorter on 86U but better throughput than 68U. Therefore, it is actually an improvement as long as you are in range

what channel are you using for 5 gig

 

[RMerlin]

Err... I was hoping merlin firmware can help to improve the signal range. Guest not.

The wifi code is 100% identical between my firmware and stock firmware. It won't have any impact whatsoever on wifi performance or range.

 

[Knxwledge]

I tried the 86U for a few hours yesterday but ended up returning it. Range was the same compare to my RT-AC1900P and didn't feel it was worth $200 over my current one.

 

[RMerlin]

I tried the 86U for a few hours yesterday but ended up returning it. Range was the same compare to my RT-AC1900P and didn't feel it was worth $200 over my current one.

All these high-end models have pretty much reached the limit of the laws of physics in terms of coverage/performance. You will only see marginal differences between various models.

The RT-AC86U strength lies in its CPU, which gives it unmatched VPN and USB sharing performance. Also, it's aggressive pricing allows it to become a viable replacement to the RT-AC68U in that market segment (the 200$ segment).

But at this point, anyone looking to improve their wifi coverage need to look at multiple APs.